The incredible performances of Pedro Acosta in the early stages of the 2024 MotoGP season are adding a new perspective to a grand prix in which he had no involvement. In September 2023, Dani Pedrosa, who will turn 38 later that month, makes his second surprise appearance of the season at Misano. He had already shown strength in Jerez, his first race of the season, but performs even better in Misano. He qualifies as the top KTM, finishes the sprint race as the top KTM, and ends the grand prix as the top KTM.
Despite approaching 40 years old, Pedrosa is able to keep up with the factory KTMs, even without consistent race practice. This raises the question of whether the KTM RC16 is better than its riders are making it seem. Is there untapped potential that can be extracted from the bike? This question becomes even more prominent after the Portimão stage of the season, when Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro comments on the strength of the KTM.
Acosta has been a formidable opponent for his teammates during the pre-season and early races of the season. He poses a significant challenge for Binder, who had a tough weekend at COTA. Despite facing several setbacks, including compromised setup and a crash in Q1, Binder manages to salvage a ninth place. However, Acosta’s performance highlights the difference between them.
Acosta consistently outperforms Binder in all sessions and makes the right tire choice for the race. Binder acknowledges that Acosta’s performance has been exceptional and questions whether he would have been able to challenge him even in a “normal” weekend. Binder’s contract offers some security, but if he continues to struggle against Acosta, this could have long-term implications for his reputation as the top rider of the RC16.
The next opportunity for Binder to prove himself will be in Jerez, where he will have to compete not only against Acosta, but also against Pedrosa, who will make another surprise appearance. It is crucial for Binder to establish himself within the KTM/Gas Gas structure and regain his position as the reference rider of the RC16.
© 2024
